Regardless of where he lands, Swinson’s future in the NFL looks bright. His combination of skills, work ethic, and competitive drive makes him a promising prospect who could develop into a reliable defensive force at the professional level
His journey from a three-star high school recruit to an SEC standout and NFL hopeful is a testament to his dedication and talent.
As he prepares for the next chapter, Swinson’s focus will be on refining his craft, impressing scouts at the NFL Combine, and proving that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level of football.
With the right coaching and development, he has the potential to become a key contributor on an NFL defense for years to come.
The influence of Bryant and Kelli Swinson on Bradyn’s life cannot be overstated. Their unwavering support, guidance, and values have played a pivotal role in shaping him into the athlete and individual he is today.
As he continues to achieve new milestones, it is clear that the foundation laid by his parents will always be a crucial part of his success story.
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Table of Contents
Bradyn Swinson: Who Is He?
A Rising Star on the Path to the NFL
Bradyn Swinson was born and raised in Douglasville, Georgia, where he developed a passion for football at a young age.1
Attending Chapel Hill High School, Swinson quickly established himself as a dominant defensive player under the guidance of head coach Justin DeShon.
His athleticism and relentless drive made him a standout, and he was soon recognized as a consensus three-star prospect.
Rivals and 247Sports ranked him among the top five strong-side defensive ends in Georgia, solidifying his reputation as a promising talent destined for college football.
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— 𓁺 Iso 4 (@OfficialSwintt) March 21, 2025
Early Life and High School Career
Swinson’s abilities on the field earned him offers from several prestigious college programs, but he ultimately chose to commit to the University of Oregon in 2020.
Playing for the Oregon Ducks, Swinson adapted to the competitive nature of college football, making his mark on the defensive line.
In his first year with the Ducks, Swinson appeared in seven games, gaining valuable experience at the collegiate level.
Though his stat line was modest—recording just three tackles—his presence on the field indicated his potential.
The shortened 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic limited playing opportunities, but Swinson used the time to develop his skills and prepare for a more impactful role in the following years.
Bradyn Swinson: Career
Breakout Sophomore Season
The 2021 season proved to be Swinson’s breakout year. Playing in 12 games, he showcased his defensive prowess by accumulating 24 tackles, including four tackles for loss, three sacks, and two pass breakups.2
His standout performance came in Week 2 against Ohio State, where he recorded five tackles and played a crucial role in Oregon’s victory.
His efforts earned him the Pac-12 Defensive Lineman of the Week award, a testament to his growing influence on the field.
Junior Year and Transfer Decision
Swinson continued his strong play in 2022, appearing in all 12 regular-season games for the Ducks. However, despite his contributions, he decided to enter the transfer portal following the season.
The move signaled his desire to seek a new challenge and an opportunity to further develop his skills in a different competitive environment.
Transition to LSU: A New Beginning
After entering the transfer portal, Swinson committed to Louisiana State University (LSU), a program known for its defensive excellence and rich football tradition.
His arrival at LSU was met with excitement, as he was expected to provide immediate impact on the Tigers’ defensive front.
First Season with the LSU Tigers
Swinson did not disappoint in his first year at LSU. Playing in 12 games, he recorded 35 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss.
He also contributed two sacks, five pass breakups, and two forced fumbles, proving to be a disruptive force on defense. His versatility and ability to pressure the quarterback made him a key player in LSU’s defensive schemes.
Senior Season Dominance
Building on his strong first season, Swinson took his game to another level in 2024. As a senior, he played in 13 games, starting in 12 of them. He led the Tigers in sacks (8.5), quarterback hurries (12), and tackles for loss (13.0).
His dominance on the field earned him multiple accolades, including three SEC Player of the Week honors.
One of his most memorable performances came in a comeback victory over South Carolina, where he recorded a career-high three sacks, earning SEC Defensive Player of the Week recognition.
Declaring for the NFL Draft
Following an impressive senior season, Swinson officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft through his personal Instagram handle, @sw1ntt.
His decision to take the next step in his football journey was met with support from fans and analysts alike, as he had proven himself as one of the top defensive prospects in college football.
Bradyn Swinson: Strengths and Skillset
Swinson’s game is built on a combination of power, speed, and football IQ.3
His ability to read plays and react quickly allows him to disrupt offenses effectively.
Some of his key strengths include:
- Pass-Rushing Ability – With 8.5 sacks in his senior season, Swinson has demonstrated his ability to get to the quarterback consistently.
- Athleticism and Agility – His quick first step and lateral movement make him a versatile defensive end capable of covering ground effectively.
- Tackling and Run Defense – His 13 tackles for loss in 2024 highlight his ability to shut down running plays before they develop.
- Leadership and Work Ethic – As a senior leader at LSU, Swinson played a key role in mentoring younger players and setting an example on and off the field.
Areas for Improvement
While Swinson has an impressive skill set, there are areas he can continue to refine at the next level:
- Consistency in Play Recognition – At times, he can be overaggressive, biting on play fakes and misdirections.
- Strength at the Point of Attack – Adding muscle mass could help him handle stronger offensive linemen in the NFL.
- Expanding His Pass-Rush Moves – While he has a solid repertoire, further developing his hand technique and counter moves will enhance his effectiveness.
NFL Draft Projections and Potential Fit
As Swinson enters the 2025 NFL Draft, analysts project him as a mid-to-late-round selection with the potential to rise based on pre-draft workouts and interviews.
His athleticism and production make him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of an edge rusher.
Potential team fits include:
- Atlanta Falcons – Looking for a young pass rusher to bolster their defensive front.
- Baltimore Ravens – Known for developing defensive talent and maximizing players’ strengths.
- San Francisco 49ers – Could use Swinson as a rotational pass rusher in their aggressive defensive scheme.
- Chicago Bears – Seeking additional defensive playmakers to complement their pass rush.
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Bradyn Swinson: Family
A Deep Dive into His Roots
Bradyn Swinson, a promising athlete, has gained recognition for his skills on the field. However, behind every great athlete stands a strong support system.
His parents, Bryant and Kelli Swinson, have played a crucial role in shaping his career. This article delves into their backgrounds, their influence on Bradyn’s journey, and the values they have instilled in him.
Growing up in a family-oriented household, Bradyn learned the value of teamwork and support. These lessons translated into his performance on the field, where he values collaboration and unity with his teammates.
As Bradyn’s career progresses, his parents remain actively involved in his journey.
Kelli and Bryant often attend Bradyn’s games, cheering him on and celebrating his victories. Their presence at important matches provides him with the motivation to perform at his best.
Offering Emotional and Mental Support
The pressures of being an athlete can be overwhelming, but having a strong support system helps. Bradyn’s parents continue to offer emotional and mental support, helping him stay grounded and focused.
Even as he advances in his career, Bradyn seeks advice from his parents when making important decisions. Their experience and wisdom remain valuable assets in his journey.
Having a solid foundation has given Bradyn an advantage in both his personal and professional life.
His parents have not only guided him through his athletic journey but have also equipped him with life skills that will benefit him beyond sports.
Who Are Bradyn Swinson’s Parents?
Bradyn Swinson was born to Bryant and Kelli Swinson. They have been pillars of support throughout his life, ensuring that he receives both academic and athletic guidance.
Bradyn is not an only child; he has two brothers and a sister, making for a close-knit family dynamic that has influenced his personal and professional growth.
The Role of Bradyn’s Mother, Kelli Swinson
Kelli Swinson is a dedicated teacher with a passion for education. She describes herself on her X account (@kelli_swinson) as a ‘wife, mother, and educator whose love for learning drives me to positively impact and enrich the lives of children and adults.’
Passion for Education
As an educator, Kelli has a deep commitment to learning and development. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping not only the lives of her students but also that of her children.
Bradyn has often spoken about the values instilled in him by his mother, particularly the importance of hard work and continuous self-improvement.
Support for Bradyn’s Career
Kelli has been a constant source of encouragement for Bradyn. She has attended his games, provided moral support, and ensured that he maintains a balance between sports and academics.
Her nurturing nature has played a significant role in shaping Bradyn’s character and discipline.
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The Role of Bradyn’s Father, Bryant Swinson
Bryant Swinson has also played a significant role in Bradyn’s journey, particularly in his athletic development.
In an interview with Anthony Ranaudo on The Up & In Show, Bradyn credited his father for guiding him through the recruitment process and helping him make important career decisions.
A Mentor and Guide
Bryant has been instrumental in Bradyn’s sports career, offering guidance on training, discipline, and perseverance. As someone with experience in navigating the sports world, he has provided insights that have helped Bradyn develop as an athlete.
The Recruitment Process
Navigating the recruitment process in competitive sports can be challenging, but Bryant took an active role in ensuring Bradyn made informed decisions.
His involvement ensured that Bradyn found the best opportunities to showcase his talent and grow as an athlete.
The Influence of Family Values on Bradyn’s Career
Both Bryant and Kelli Swinson have instilled essential values in Bradyn that have contributed to his success. Some of these core values include:
From a young age, Bradyn was taught the importance of putting in effort and staying dedicated to his goals. His parents emphasized discipline and perseverance, helping him navigate the challenges of being a student-athlete.
Kelli’s background as an educator ensured that Bradyn understood the importance of education. His parents encouraged him to excel academically alongside his athletic career, making sure he was well-rounded.
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